Morganton Public RecordsNorth Carolina

Morganton city, Burke County, NC, has an estimated population of about 17,500 (2022). The median age is around 39 years. The gender distribution is approximately 48% male and 52% female. Racially, the city is 66% White, 17% Black or African American, 8% Asian, and 7% Hispanic or Latino. Other races and multiracial individuals make up the remainder.

Morganton, Burke, NC, has a homeownership rate of about 54% with a median home value of approximately $185,000 as of 2023. The median rent is around $900 per month. Home values have risen about 6% year-over-year. Housing options range from historic single-family homes in downtown neighborhoods to newer subdivisions. Popular neighborhoods include Forest Hill and Oak Hill. Property tax rate averages 0.61% of a property’s assessed value. The area offers a mix of affordable rentals and homes, appealing to families and retirees alike.

Morganton, Burke County, NC, has 8 public schools, including Freedom High and Patton High. Public school ratings average 6/10 (GreatSchools), above state average. About 87% of adults hold a high school diploma, and roughly 20% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Western Piedmont Community College supports adult and vocational education. School safety incidents are below state average, with robust security programs. Diverse educational programs include STEM and Advanced Placement (AP) options, with AP participation at Freedom High at 38%.

Transportation in Morganton, Burke County, NC, is largely car-dependent, with about 83% of commuters driving alone and 10% carpooling, while less than 1% use public transit. The average commute time is around 21 minutes, below the national average. The city’s infrastructure includes access to I-40 and US-64. Approximately 7% of households lack vehicle access. Major employment hubs are in healthcare, manufacturing, and education, such as Carolinas HealthCare System Blue Ridge and Burke County Public Schools. Public transit is provided by Greenway Public Transportation, though its usage remains limited.

Morganton, NC, in Burke County, is served by approximately 2 hospitals, notably UNC Health Blue Ridge with over 180 beds, and several clinics including federally qualified health centers. Healthcare access is moderate, with about 83% of residents insured. The city’s population of roughly 17,500 is predominantly White (68%), with significant Black (13%) and Hispanic (12%) communities. Common health issues include heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses, reflecting countywide trends. Healthcare providers include primary care physicians (approximately 45 per 100,000 residents) and specialists, though shortages exist, particularly in mental health services.